Southampton: Anger over Department of Health study into dental fluorosis

CAMPAIGNERS have accused health bosses of wanting to use Hampshire residents as “guinea pigs” to test if fluoridating water causes damage to teeth, the Daily Echo can reveal.

The Department of Health (DoH) hopes the controversial scheme to add the chemical to tap water in and around Southampton will help with studies into dental fluorosis – which in extreme cases can cause mottling and pitting of teeth.

Angry opponents say it means children will be subjected to problems with their teeth for the sake of research.

As reported, the plans to put fluoride in tap water delivered to nearly 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams are currently on hold because of a legal challenge.

Southampton mum Gerri Milner last month lost a judicial review against South Central Strategic Health Authority’s (SHA) decision to approve the scheme despite widespread public opposition.